Stephen and Paul are both Windows PC users, but we also use iPhones and other Apple devices. In this episode, they take a look at a new option that bridges the gap between laptop and device: Thanks to the improvements in iPadOS 26, Apple's iPad is suddenly capable of being used as a full-featured laptop. That's great for mainstream users looking for something simpler. But even power users who prefer to use a Windows or Mac laptop will find that the iPad is now an interesting choice as a backup productivity device for those times when you want to travel light or mostly disconnect from work while on vacation or some other break. Stephen and Paul also discuss other Apple devices, folding smartphones, earbuds, and more.

Stephen and Paul are back with a second look at the gadgets and other items we travel with. In this episode, we discuss multi-port USB power adapters and cables, USB and wireless device chargers, international power adapters, presenter and podcasting gear, mini travel tripods, and portable keyboards and mice.

Stephen and Paul are frequent travelers and we're very particular about what we bring with us on trips. In this episode, we discuss the types of laptop bags and backpacks we use, plus seat pillows, USB hubs, adapters, and storage, gadget organization bags, earplugs, Apple iPads, and XNote and other writing, journaling, and note-taking tools.

Viture and other companies make reasonably inexpensive VR/AR/XR glasses that are particularly well-suited for travel and work with any PC, phone, or device that supports USB-C. And they're not just for entertainment. Because these glasses are effectively a second screen, they can be used for productivity on the go as well. We also touch on the noise-cancelling earbuds and headphones that can complete the experience on those long flights.

Stephen and Paul discuss translation apps and other mobile apps that can transform international travel. Key among them: Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, and other translation apps offer Babel Fish-like live translation capabilities that can help get you past tricky conversations, camera integration so you translate signs, menus, and other items, and offline use. And Google Gemini and other AI apps are emerging as key travel tools, as they can be used to identify and tell you more about the buildings, monuments, paintings, and other objects and places around you using your phone’s camera.

AI has improved a lot in the past two years, so Stephen and Paul look at how you can use ChatGPT, Copilot, or a similar tool to create customize itineraries for your next trip. We also provide examples from two of our favorite cities, Chicago and Mexico City.

Stephen and Paul discuss whether you should check a bag when you travel, what you can do to travel more lightly, what types of luggage each prefers, and a few tips related to shoes.

Are you entertained? If you're facing a long flight, it's a good idea to be prepared so you can make the time go by a little more quickly. Stephen and Paul discuss how they do that, with an emphasis on a terrific little gadget called AirFly that lets you connect your own wireless earbuds or headphones to a plane's in-seat entertainment system.